It’s easy to blame them. After all, they’re the ones who never seem to:
- Speak up
- Give the discretionary effort
- Or deliver what they’re supposed to
But it’s not about them, is it? It’s about you. And that’s the leader’s first truth. Before blame is pointed at others, the leader looks at him/herself and takes responsibility. What am I doing (or not doing) that’s causing others to act the way they do? And what can I do better or differently to bring out their best?
The actions of those we lead say more about our effectiveness as a leader than it does the quality of the character in those we lead. Denying this truth is to suggest that our position isn’t required.
On the toughest days this truth can seem unfair, or at least, a daunting challenge. For those who find their way and enthusiastically embrace the leader’s first truth, thank you. Continue to show us how. Your integrity (your level of living) is exactly what we need.
